Tengnoupal Groups Block New Battalion Base at Saivom

Imphal: Tengnoupal civil society groups are blocking the construction of the 11th Indian Reserve Battalion at Saivom village. They claim the state pushed the tendering process through without talking to the local MLA or community leaders. This project creates risks for local land, the environment, and administrative development. The groups issued a formal press release on August 25 to air their grievances.

They want a total freeze on the project. No state forces should set up camp at Saivom, Lokchan, or Tuipi villages until the district sees real peace. The groups demand transparency and accountability from the government regarding infrastructure projects. They insist the state must formally record local concerns before turning a single spade of dirt.

The organizations warned the government of rising friction if their demands go ignored. They placed the burden of any fallout directly on the state. The group stated: "The government would be held responsible for any resulting situation." They are calling on the Manipur Chief Minister, the Director General of Police, and the Chief Secretary to step in and pause the work. The groups remain committed to using democratic means to stop the base until a full consultation process plays out.

Updated at 26th August 2026 at 1:49pm

The coalition of groups standing against the project includes the Kuki Chiefs Association of Tengnoupal, the Hill Tribal Council Moreh, the Kuki Women Union-Human Rights, and the Kuki Students Organization Tengnoupal. These groups issued their demands through a joint press release.